: a polite expression of one's gratitude

Examples of thank-you in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Your go-to thank-you gift is… Nothing will ever beat a handwritten note and maybe a sketch. Perrie Samotin, Glamour, 23 Mar. 2026 Berlinghof said that approximately six gallons of Ryerson maple syrup have been made this year to be used for sampling and for volunteers at a thank-you meal at the end of the season, when French toast is served. Karie Angell Luc, Chicago Tribune, 18 Mar. 2026 There will be a thank-you party all day next Tuesday. Mamie Bah, CBS News, 17 Mar. 2026 Storrie’s cool kid realizes his mistake after Dirkus plays him a thank-you song. Rima Parikh, Vulture, 1 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for thank-you

Word History

Etymology

from the phrase thank you used in expressing gratitude

First Known Use

1792, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of thank-you was in 1792

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Cite this Entry

“Thank-you.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thank-you. Accessed 30 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

thank-you

noun
ˈthaŋ-ˌkyü
: a polite expression of one's gratitude
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